[shilala]

I agree with Todd. It is SO important that you never go back on your word with kids. This point doesn't just teach the kids about consistancy, it teaches us about self-control and consistancy.
If one of the kids takes me to the limit and I end up saying "now, or your ass is mine", I had damn well better follow through. Thing is, if I'm using that every ten minutes, it means nothing.
I have to watch my words, as well as my tone with the kids. I make sure I speak to them with the respect I expect from them. Then when they're out of line, it means something that I've set a powerful example.